ATV and off-road vehicles: Riding safety tips and insurance insights
As summer approaches, now’s the ideal time to gear up your all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or off-road vehicle and relish the great outdoors. But before hitting the trails, remember that ensuring your safety and that of your ATV is just as crucial as planning your route. We recognize that true enjoyment comes from having peace of mind while you explore. In this post, we’ll discuss key ATV safety tips and walk you through off-road vehicle insurance coverage choices that protect your adventures, including off-road insurance and ATV off-road insurance in Canada.
Off-roading safety tips
When the adventure calls, excitement follows. Still, safety should always ride in the front seat. Here are essential safety tips every ATV enthusiast should follow:
- Gear up: Always wear a full-face helmet, goggles, long sleeves, pants, gloves, and boots. The right gear can prevent serious injuries in case of an accident.
- Respect the restriction: Pay close attention to age and weight limits for ATV use. These aren’t mere suggestions – they’re requirements for rider and trail safety.
- Stay sober: Keep the thrill pure and your judgment clear. Riding under the influence is a no-go.
- Learn and earn: A safety course can teach you the ropes of ATV command. Knowledge is power, especially off-road.
- Pre-ride checks: Taking a few minutes to inspect your ride can prevent hours of trouble. Before heading out, inspect your ATV thoroughly to prevent any unforeseen breakdowns during your ride.
- Stay off the pavement: ATVs are designed for off-road. Paved roads are outside their play zone. Always remember to abide by your provincial regulations.
- Right speed for the right trail: Adjust your speed to the environment. Take it slow on narrow and winding trails, but you can speed up in wider areas.
- Leave no trace: Keep the environment clean by leaving no litter behind and staying on designated trails.
Remember, while these safety tips are crucial, they don’t replace proper ATV insurance. Let’s dive into that now.
Your off-road vehicle insurance, well-covered
Choosing the right insurance for your ATV isn’t just about complying with legal requirements—it’s about ensuring that you can fully enjoy every moment of your adventure, free from worry about the ‘what-ifs’. We offer a tailored solution that matches both your needs and your budget.
Our coverage options include:
- Liability Coverage: Protects you in case you’re responsible for an accident-causing injury to someone or damage to their property.
- Collision Coverage: Protection for damage to your ATV from a crash.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covering scenarios like theft, fire, or vandalism; and customized options that consider your unique needs.
For a detailed look at all available options specific to your province, check out our off-road vehicle insurance page. Remember, our knowledgeable team is here to help guide you through the choices, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the thrill of the ride with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re well protected.
Do off-road vehicles need insurance?
Navigating through the ins and outs of off-road adventuring can raise quite a few questions, and one that stands out is the necessity of insurance for off-road vehicles like ATVs. The straightforward answer is yes, insurance is not only beneficial but often required. While the law regarding insurance may vary by province, the importance of protecting yourself, your vehicle, and those around you remains universally acknowledged.
Accidents happen, even to the most seasoned riders, and without coverage, the financial impact can be just as hard-hitting as the ride. More than a regulatory necessity, insurance is a layer of security that ensures a stress-free enjoyment of your off-road adventures. Whether it’s damage to your vehicle, an unfortunate incident affecting another party, or unexpected breakdowns miles from help, having the right insurance coverage means you’re prepared for whatever the trail throws your way. Connect with us to learn more about provincial regulations that may impact the type of coverage you need.
Stay safe and insured with Westland
Steering your ATV through the wilderness is about passion meeting preparedness. Whether it’s respecting the limits of your machine, or the limits of predictability, you ultimately write the story of each ride. Whether you’re looking to insure a new ATV or want to review your current policy, connect with us! Our insurance advisors can find the right coverage that fits your lifestyle and budget. Ready to get started now? Click below to begin your ATV quote.